https://www.radioworld.com/columns-and-views/low-power-fm/taking-it-lpfm-finding-or-founding-your-nonprofit
Editor’s note: The window for filing applications for new LPFM stations has been pushed back. It will now run from Dec. 6 to Dec. 13. Learn more here.
Radio World has introduced a series of articles titled “Firing Up Frequencies,” intended for readers who may be interested in applying for a low-power FM station license in the FCC’s upcoming window in November 2023. The following story is the second installment in the series.
The author is Sharon Scott, president and co-founder of ART FM, WXOX in Louisville, Ky. Sharon is the author of the new book “Low-Power FM for Dummies.”
Courtesy: Kara Richardson / ART FM
For the first time in an entire decade, the FCC has announced a low-power FM filing window for Nov. 1–8, 2023. This is a rare opportunity for nonprofit organizations to get their own spot on the FM dial. This is very exciting but also very intense as there is not much time to get the word out.
My previous article “Get Ready to Fire Up the Frequencies“ gives an overview of what is to be expected of LPFM applicants. In the next few installments, I will break it down step by step. I would like to emphasize that it is easier than you might think to start an LPFM radio station. No experience is required and there is a dedicated community willing to help. The LPFM Resources website provides a list of contacts and other useful information for those looking to get started. Of course there will be expenses; but grants and local support can help make your radio dream a reality. Once your application is granted, you will have three years to get on the FM dial, which is plenty of time to acquire the resources you need.
If you want an LPFM license, the first order of business is determining whether there is availability in your area. To do this, you can use the LPFM Channel Finder on the FCC website or the REC Networks LPFM Wide Area Availability Map.
If there is an available frequency in your area, you will need to get busy finding or founding a nonprofit organization that is willing to apply for the LPFM license. Tribes and government agencies can also apply, but individuals and for-profit businesses cannot. If you are already with a nonprofit, that is fantastic! Below is a checklist you will want to review with your board members to make sure everyone qualifies.
If you are not with a nonprofit, it is easy to get one started, but you will need to do it as quickly as possible. Like, today. To apply for an LPFM license you will need to incorporate as a nonprofit organization with your state. This is an easy process that can be completed in a couple of days. You will NOT need to be a federal tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization. It is advisable to keep the initial Articles of Incorporation as simple as possible to get things started. You will have time to fine-tune your organization later.
Most states require that three individuals serve on the board of directors of a nonprofit organization, but some states only require one. Check the website of your state’s secretary of state for specific details. Some of these sites provide online templates for starting a nonprofit organization that can make the process simple. You may want to hire an attorney to draw up your Articles of Incorporation, or find an advocacy organization that can provide pro bono support. Just make sure to emphasize your need to get this done in a flash!
The FCC will only award LPFM frequencies to organizations that are local to the community in which they plan to broadcast. They must claim one of the following to qualify:
or